Do you remember when you first arrived at Elizabethtown College? Some things stand out for all of us: submitting your application, attending an open house, decision day and the glorious moment when we first move into our first-year dorm. But before we met our peer mentors, before we met with professors and maybe even before we decided to attend Etown, we had a tour guide. Representing the best of the College, Blue Jay Ambassadors spend hours every week guiding new families around campus and acting as the liaison of the student body. The position, previously known as ‘Jaywalker,’ has long been prospective students’ first impression of Etown. However, there is more to this essential occupation than meets the eye.
Senior biology allied health major Bryanna Miller, as well as senior early childhood education major Gillian Conner, were willing to share some insights into the position. As Blue Jay Ambassadors, they give tours to prospective students and families to tell them all about what life is like on campus. Some Ambassadors, like Conner, provide overnight visits to prospective students, operate the front desk in the Admissions Office and advertise Etown to the surrounding community. These may seem like hefty responsibilities, but Miller recommends this job to any interested students. “I’d absolutely recommend this job! It’s super rewarding, especially when you see students on campus in the fall that you previously gave on tour.”
A Blue Jay Ambassador can have fun outside of giving tours as well. Miller recalled some of her favorite memories from working at the Admissions office, “I loved working during the Summer of 2021! Living on campus over the summer and being able to work with your friends is so much fun!” This position can be a great way for any student to make lifelong friends, make a difference in their community, and learn a lot about the history of the campus along the way.”
Senior political science major Andrew Furman asked potential Blue Jay Ambassadors to use their life and college experience to their advantage. “Blue Jay Ambassadors are good because each ambassador brings their own unique perspective on the college,” he explained “Knowing yourself, and what you’re bringing to the table is a superpower!”
Do you have what it takes to be a good Blue Jay Ambassador? According to Conner, if you enjoy “socializing with families and new students, taking initiative, being a team player, striving to learn, [and are] passionate about Etown,” you’re perfect for the position! Whether you’re a first-year who is learning to love their new home or an upperclassman wanting to give back to the community, you might be interested in becoming a Blue Jay Ambassador.
